I think this is a good summary of a great deal of info on bonsai, but not enough for someone really learning, more of a pocket guide (perhaps a good gift for someone who MIGHT like bonsai). It is a condensed version (very condensed) of Tomlinson's excellent book "Complete book of Bonsai". I suggest you buy a more complete book first, then get this if you need one for a backpack (say on expedition to collect trees for your bonsai). This small version will help you remember what you have already read in detail. Also, before you buy anything, don't miss Amy Liang's "The Living Art of Bonsai: Principles & Techniques of Cultivation & Propagation" which has the most beautiful full color full page photos, and perhaps the most in depth knowledge I have seen yet on Bonsai. Truly a gorgeous book, worth having for the artistic side alone, for a coffee table. Happy pruning X% :)